Kayakoy, a district of Fethiye in Muğla, is a destination that fascinates its visitors with its historical texture, natural beauty and cultural heritage. This village, once inhabited by Greeks, was abandoned after the population exchange in the early 20th century and is now known as a “ghost village”. With its stone houses, narrow streets, churches and surrounding natural beauty, Kayakoy offers a unique experience for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
How to Get to Kayakoy?
Kayakoy is located approximately 8 km from the Fethiye district center. There are private vehicles, taxis or minibuses to reach Kayakoy from Fethiye. For those coming from the Ölüdeniz direction, it is possible to reach Kayakoy via Hisarönü. You can also reach Kayakoy by walking on the Lycian Way.
Places to Visit in Kayakoy
1. Abandoned Greek Houses
The first thing that greets everyone visiting Kayakoy is the abandoned Greek houses scattered on the hillsides. These houses were built by the Greek people living in Kayakoy, known as “Levissi” during the Ottoman period. After the population exchange between Turkey and Greece in 1923, the village was completely evacuated and the houses were handed over to time in their current state. Approximately 500 stone houses attract attention with their unique architecture and regular layout. Each of these houses is like a silent structure that has witnessed the history of Kayakoy.
The windows of the houses are positioned so that they do not block each other’s view, which allows sunlight to reach all houses equally. While walking on the streets, it is possible to see the traces of ivy and time on the walls. Despite the feeling of abandonment, these houses make you feel the warmth and life of the people who once lived here. This area, which is also protected by UNESCO, has great architectural and cultural importance.
2. Taksiyarhis Church (Upper Church)
Taksiyarhis Church, located at the highest point of the village, is one of the structures identified with Kayakoy. This church, built in the 19th century, is very valuable both in terms of religion and architecture. An imposing structure with its stone walls, arched windows and large entrance, the church was once a center where the villagers held their collective worship. Although it is in ruins today, it still preserves its magnificence and manages to fascinate its visitors.
Thanks to its high location, the church also offers a panoramic view of Kayakoy. Watching the sunrise or sunset from here offers a fascinating experience. The stone carvings, apse section and icons in the interior of the church reflect the artistic understanding of the Byzantine period. While walking in silence, you have the opportunity to witness the history and spirit of the structure up close.
3. Panagia Pirgiotissa Church (Lower Church)
Panagia Pirgiotissa Church is a smaller but equally impressive structure located in the lower part of Kayakoy. Although it is simple in terms of architecture, it carries great historical and spiritual meaning. This church is less known than the Taksiyarhis Church, but it was considered very important by the locals. The fresco remains inside reveal religious scenes and depictions of saints. The use of color in the frescoes is especially impressive examples of Byzantine art.
The area around the church is usually very quiet, which allows visitors to have a mystical experience. Panagia Pirgiotissa is not only a place of worship, but also a part of the cultural fabric of Kayakoy. The atmosphere inside the structure continues to bear traces of religious rituals. Stopping here for a while and listening to the voice of the past helps to understand the spirit of Kayakoy more deeply.
4. Chapels
There are more than 14 small chapels in Kayakoy. These chapels are small structures of worship, usually built of stone, with domed or vaulted roofs. These chapels, spread out in different parts of the village, were areas where the people performed their daily religious rituals, prayed and came together.
Most of the chapels are hidden in nature and some are still waiting to be discovered. These small structures are very valuable in terms of better understanding the belief system and architectural diversity of Kayakoy. For those interested in history, these chapels offer a different route of discovery in the village.
5. Af Tower Monastery
Af Tower Monastery, built on a steep cliff approximately 3 kilometers from Kayakoy, is one of the most striking points in the region in terms of view. It is said that the monastery was founded by a monk in the 5th century, and a difficult path walk is required to reach it. However, when you reach it, it is worth all the fatigue with both its historical texture and its eye-catching view.
The endless blue of the Aegean Sea is visible from the point where the monastery is located. The stone walls of the structure, its fine workmanship and the natural surroundings transform this point into a mystical and peaceful atmosphere. Af Tower is one of the indispensable stops of the Kayakoy trip for nature walkers and history enthusiasts.
6. Gemile Bay and St. Nicholas Island
Gemile Bay, located approximately 6 kilometers from Kayakoy, stands out with its clear sea and peaceful beach. This bay is a popular spot for those who want to enjoy the sea, especially in the summer months. It is also quite suitable for activities such as canoeing and diving.
Located just across from Gemile Bay, St. Nicholas Island is full of Byzantine church and monastery ruins. You can reach the island after a short boat ride and walk among the historical structures. This place offers an ideal combination for both sea pleasure and cultural discovery.
7. Soğuksu Bay
Soğuksu Bay takes its name from the cool freshwater springs that come from it. With its sea that is quite cool even in the summer months, it is a refreshing escape in hot weather. Known for its natural structure and silence, the bay is very close to Kayakoy and can be reached both by land and by boat.
Since there are no facilities around the bay, it is one of the rare areas that has preserved its naturalness. It is ideal for those who want to have a picnic, swim or just relax. If you want to cool off a bit and spend your visit to Kayakoy in touch with nature, Soğuksu Bay is a good choice.
8. Darboğaz Bay
Darboğaz Bay is an isolated paradise that can only be reached by foot or boat. Thanks to these features, it offers a peaceful sea experience away from the crowds. The bay, known for its calmness and cleanliness, is an attractive alternative especially for nature lovers.
There are no structures or businesses in the bay, which can be reached by a 30-40 minute walk. Therefore, it is important to be prepared before visiting. Its natural and untouched structure makes the bay different. You can spend time here all day long and enjoy nature.
9. Amintas Rock Tombs
Amintas Rock Tombs, which are very close to Fethiye city center, are among the most magnificent historical ruins from the Lycian period. These tombs carved into the rocks are located on a high slope and overlook Fethiye Gulf. The view they offer, especially at sunset, fascinates visitors.
Amintas, the largest of the tombs, has striking details. Lycian inscriptions and reliefs are still visible. You can add this impressive structure to your list of places to visit with a short trip from Kayakoy to Fethiye.